The Faculty is thrilled to welcome new students to two of its master’s programmes. Vibrant orientations were held in late August for the second cohort of the Master of Social Sciences in Social Data Analytics [MSocSc(SDA)] and the inaugural cohort of the Master of Social Sciences in Population and Policy Analysis [MSocSc(Pop&PA)].
The events were designed to foster collaboration, exploration, and inspiration as these students begin their academic journeys at HKU.
Students from the MSocSc(SDA) programme connect at their orientation.
MSocSc(SDA): Fostering Social Data Innovators
The orientation for the MSocSc(SDA) programme began with an inspiring welcome by Programme Director, Professor Tarani Chandola. Students participated in icebreaking games, a networking luncheon with instructors at the Senior Common Room, and a GPS-guided campus hunt designed to promote teamwork. Following the orientation, a 4-day Bootcamp was held to build a solid foundation for their studies.
MSocSc(SDA) students collaborate during a problem-solving campus hunt.
MSocSc(Pop&PA): Nurturing Demographers with Policy Insights
The inaugural cohort of the MSocSc(Pop&PA) programme engaged in problem-solving activities, a campus tour, and a welcoming luncheon with course instructors and supervisors. In his welcome speech, Programme Director Professor Guy Abel emphasised the importance of their chosen field:
“In today’s fast-changing world, understanding how population trends and policies connect is more important than ever.”
The inaugural cohort of the MSocSc(Pop&PA) programme at their welcoming orientation.
During both orientations, Professor Eric Fong, Associate Dean (Teaching and Learning), delivered a pre-recorded welcoming address. He encouraged the new students to embrace opportunities, connect across disciplines, and cultivate a ‘3C’ mindset—Curiosity, Collaboration, and Compassion—as essential qualities for their postgraduate journey.
We look forward to celebrating the progress and achievements of our new students. Welcome to the HKU family!